As the demand for skilled healthcare professionals continues to grow, becoming a surgical technologist can be a rewarding and challenging career path. In Minnesota, there are several excellent schools that offer programs in surgical technology. Here, we'll explore the 5 best surgical tech schools in MN, highlighting their programs, accreditation, and more.
Surgical technologists play a vital role in the operating room, ensuring that surgeries are performed safely and efficiently. To become a certified surgical technologist (CST), one must complete a post-secondary education program in surgical technology and pass a certification exam. Let's dive into the top surgical tech schools in Minnesota.
1. Minneapolis Community and Technical College (MCTC)
MCTC offers an Associate in Applied Science (AAS) degree in Surgical Technology, which is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP). This program includes both classroom and clinical training, preparing students for the CST certification exam. MCTC's surgical technology program has a high job placement rate, with over 90% of graduates finding employment in the field.
Program Details:
- Program length: 2 years
- Credits: 60
- Accreditation: CAAHEP
- Job placement rate: 90%
2. St. Cloud Technical and Community College (SCTCC)
SCTCC's Surgical Technology program is also accredited by CAAHEP and leads to an AAS degree. This program emphasizes hands-on training, with students participating in clinical rotations at local hospitals and surgical centers. SCTCC's surgical technology program has a strong reputation in the region, with many graduates going on to work in top hospitals and healthcare facilities.
Program Details:
- Program length: 2 years
- Credits: 60
- Accreditation: CAAHEP
- Job placement rate: 85%
3. Rasmussen University (Mankato Campus)
Rasmussen University's Surgical Technology program is offered at the Mankato campus and is accredited by CAAHEP. This program focuses on providing students with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the operating room. Rasmussen University's surgical technology program has a strong focus on clinical training, with students participating in externships and clinical rotations.
Program Details:
- Program length: 2 years
- Credits: 60
- Accreditation: CAAHEP
- Job placement rate: 80%
4. Herzing University (Minneapolis Campus)
Herzing University's Surgical Technology program is offered at the Minneapolis campus and is accredited by CAAHEP. This program provides students with a comprehensive education in surgical technology, including classroom and clinical training. Herzing University's surgical technology program has a strong focus on preparing students for the CST certification exam.
Program Details:
- Program length: 2 years
- Credits: 60
- Accreditation: CAAHEP
- Job placement rate: 75%
5. Northland Community and Technical College (NCTC)
NCTC's Surgical Technology program is accredited by CAAHEP and leads to an AAS degree. This program emphasizes hands-on training, with students participating in clinical rotations at local hospitals and surgical centers. NCTC's surgical technology program has a strong reputation in the region, with many graduates going on to work in top hospitals and healthcare facilities.
Program Details:
- Program length: 2 years
- Credits: 60
- Accreditation: CAAHEP
- Job placement rate: 70%
Gallery of Surgical Technology Programs in Minnesota
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average salary for a surgical technologist in Minnesota?
+The average salary for a surgical technologist in Minnesota is around $55,000 per year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
How long does it take to become a certified surgical technologist?
+Typically, it takes 2 years to complete a surgical technology program and become eligible to take the CST certification exam.
What are the job prospects for surgical technologists in Minnesota?
+Job prospects for surgical technologists in Minnesota are excellent, with a high demand for skilled professionals in the operating room.
We hope this article has provided you with valuable information on the best surgical tech schools in Minnesota. Remember to research each program thoroughly and consider factors such as accreditation, job placement rates, and program length when making your decision. Good luck on your path to becoming a certified surgical technologist!